Following an incident at the Kadavu Rugby Union’s Southern Rally last weekend, Nakasaleka rugby head coach Vilikesa Vulakauvaki has accepted responsibility for the fallout caused by the interference of officials. He noted that Nakasaleka entered two teams in the senior division and one in the under-19 category.
Vulakauvaki emphasized that the situation stemmed from the “vakavanua style,” referring to the traditional practices that have clouded governance in sports. “There have been discussions about other teams potentially withdrawing from the competition—these are all minor repercussions from our own officials’ actions,” he remarked.
He called for a shift away from the traditional mindset observed among Nakasaleka rugby officials, stressing that fostering the sport’s growth was essential to prevent such incidents.
On the second morning of the event, Nakasaleka officials informed Vulakauvaki that Nakasaleka One would have to forfeit its semi-final match against Nakasaleka Two. Additionally, they approached organizers demanding that the under-19 team be named champions, as they had finished at the top during the round-robin phase. This decision was met with dissatisfaction from other teams, prompting some to leave the venue.
Vulakauvaki pointed out the timing of the communication, highlighting that officials approached the first team while players were relaxing and preparing to leave after the announcement of the forfeit.
He expressed concern that such attitudes among officials could undermine the aspirations of players looking to represent their region.
In support of Vulakauvaki, Kadavu Rugby Union vice-president Rusiate Wadali echoed the need for the sport’s autonomy, stating that the recent events were minor but indicative of a larger issue. He stressed the importance of separating the union from traditional influences to ensure progress in rugby.
Wadali mentioned ongoing efforts to involve all chiefs and club officials in a reconciliatory manner and to reinforce the independence of rugby in Kadavu. He plans to communicate this vision at an upcoming meeting with the Kadavu Provincial office, where the updated squad and future planning will also be presented.